California Campervan Hire

A stay at an RV park will usually cost around $25–80 (USD) per night.

The cost of campgrounds has risen in recent years due to the popularity of RV vacations in the USA.

The majority of campervan rental suppliers in the US do not offer unlimited miles as a standard rental inclusion.

In most cases, miles (kilometres) are capped at a daily rate, and additional fees will be incurred if you exceed the limit. Additional miles can usually also be prepurchased in packages ranging from 100 miles up to unlimited. However, any remaining miles will not be refunded when the vehicle is returned.

Check our comparison tool for details.

A wide variety of motorhomes are available in the USA, from smaller station wagons up to large motorhomes. Some of the common types include:

• Class A: (21-45 ft) The biggest and most expensive vehicles, they can be hard to manoeuvre if you are new to driving motorhomes but are often equipped with additional luxuries.

Class A motorhomes are often built on a commercial truck or bus chassis and run on either diesel or gas, depending on the type of engine.

Usually, Class A vehicles are fully loaded with all amenities and have a large living space.

• Class B: (17-19 ft) Small and affordable, these vehicles are easier to drive and manoeuvre. Class B vehicles are often known as conversion vans and are built on a smaller chassis compared to Class A vehicles.

Some Class B vehicles include a toilet or freshwater tank, but not all do. Class B vehicles usually have basic cooking equipment, folding beds and limited storage space.

Class B vehicles are a good option for short-term getaways.

• Class C: (30-33 ft) These vehicles are medium-sized, with moderate storage space and a few extra luxuries.

Class C vehicles are a smaller version of the Class A motorhome. They are built on a truck or van cutaway chassis and usually have a gas-powered engine.

Class C motorhomes generally have sleeping quarters above the cab and more sleeping space in the back. Some Class Cs also have a slide-out option that increases the living space when the motorhome is parked.

Class C vehicles come equipped with a good number of facilities, including a self-contained toilet, refrigerator, heating or AC, and cooking facilities.

Class C vehicles are very versatile and are great for both short- and long-term getaways.

Our comparison tool will show you the specifications of each vehicle available to help you find a camper suitable for your needs.

As in the rest of America, free camping is only allowed in designated areas, which can include national parks, state parks, truck stops or rest stops as well as certain parking lots with permission from the store manager.

California is home to numerous RV parks and campgrounds, ranging from $35–60 (USD) per night. These are suitable for all vehicle types, from travel trailers to larger recreational vehicles.

Yes, many suppliers have depots in multiple locations throughout California and the US, making one-way rentals a great way to see more during your road trip.

San Francisco is a great starting location for those wanting to explore Northern California, with many attractions in the surrounding areas, including the famous Yosemite National Park.

For those heading through Southern California, Los Angeles is a good starting point. From there, you can head down the west coast to San Diego and throughout the surrounding area.

Most rental companies only allow their vehicles to be driven on sealed/bitumen roads.

In addition, note the following restrictions regarding specific areas:

• Mexico - With the exception of El Monte, travel to Mexico is prohibited in rental vehicles.
• Death Valley - Restrictions can vary between suppliers but is generally allowed. However, travel may be restricted during certain times of the year. Check with your rental supplier for full details.
• New York City/Downtown Manhattan - RVs are generally not allowed due to vehicle height restrictions around the city.
• Canada - RVs are generally allowed; however, travel to certain locations may be restricted during colder seasons.

If you take your vehicle where it is not permitted, you will be liable for all damages incurred and an additional fine may be imposed.

Check your rental agreement for any further restrictions regarding your RV rental.

All drivers must have a current and full driver’s licence to hire a vehicle. Foreign licences are generally acceptable if they are in English or accompanied by an accredited English translation. Otherwise, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is required.

In addition to your driver’s licence, you will often be required to show your passport at the time of pickup.

Some companies, e.g. Road Bear, Best Time and Britz, require an IDP regardless of the language of your licence.

This depends on the company. Several rental suppliers will allow you to travel to Canada in your rental vehicle, including Apollo, El Monte, Jucy, Campervan North America, Travellers Autobarn, Escape Rentals and Cruise America.

Please contact support for information on other suppliers. You must comply with visa and customs requirements at all times.